Banks and Other Financial Institutions Speech or Presentation

Banks and Other Financial Institutions - Speech or Presentation Example The insurance company AIG’s main services include General Insurance which include insurance for fire, marine, motor vehicles and miscellaneous things. They also provide health insurance, claim payments. The bank and insurance company are similar in the form that both provide customer benefits in terms of securing their money where banks can be used for saving money while the insurance company can be used to make health treatments secured, property and other valuable items secured through insurance. Both types of financial institution are also huge benefit to the economy as the world economy relies heavily on these institutions. Both firms differ in terms of the different types of services that they offer such as banks can be used for saving money and then earning interest on them whereas in a financial institution lease payments are made to insure something. Financial institutions of today are huge and are everywhere and the world economy cannot survive without them as most of the money is given out through them and the business rely on these firms hugely. The savings and loans crisis could have been avoided if there was not overregulation in the industry by the government. The high regulation prevented different firms from experimenting with different ways to adapt to changing market trends. Neither owners nor depositors had anything to lose, and both groups encouraged escalating risk-taking as a result. The disaster could have been avoided if there was more consideration on the part of the owners of these

Control being over business by government Essay Example for Free

Control being over business by government Essay What are the arguments for and against, greater control being exercised over business by government? How do these arguments differ between the countries of the group members? We would like to start the answer by an example of USA when they were heavily involved in the industrialization and expansion. People of all different occupations were involved in some part of the industrial revolution. However there was a debate over the government intervening in the building of infrastructure. Chief Justice John Marshall made many landmark court decisions which played a role in defining the business climate that developed during the industrial revolution and strengthened the central governments control over the business. Thus finally the government was involved in the early stages of the industrial revolution. The governments decision of this era laid the ground work of the future U.S. growth of the nation. Without these pro-business decisions, the United states would not have made the change from being agriculturally dependent to the industrialized nation it is today. [www.historyteacher.net/USProjects/myessay21.htm] Hence it sounds better in some situation and it doesnt in some. For example in China, local governments stand passively by as private firms aggressively reject long-standing official right because the government officials in south China are increasingly anxious to shed their responsibility for economic management. Also they fear the risks and dangers associated with the more complete market system that has emerged during the 1990s. As a result, Chinas southern provinces have already begun the process of separating government from business, while, in the north, leading officials emphasize the slogan separate government from enterprises but, fearing slow growth, practice the opposite. [www.pitt.edu/~tgrawski/paper98/china.html] To what extent do you think a change of government in a) UK would affect the business community? b) the countries of group members? It can have a great impact on businesses in UK or in other countries like India, China etc. For example: Regulatory systems can be improved to provide faster access to exploration land and clarification of aboriginal disputes, taxes such as corporate taxes, income taxes etc can be reduced, Business leaders can hope for a complete overhaul of the resource-rich provinces economic structure, Economic growth can be affected by change in government, it is expected that the new government can come up with creative solutions on how to reduce government indebtedness during its term, the new government will aim to solve deficit of balance of payments by boosting production through attracting direct foreign investments, also new government can change the manufacturing scenario in the country like instead of importing products, they can plan to manufacture in their own land which will indirectly reduce the unemployment in the manufacturing field. Also it can provide grant to those regions in which unemployment is high. [http://www.rba.hr/web/pdf/rrr/rba-rrr-012-2003-12-18.pdf] What are the implications of privatising a public sector business organisations? With privatization programs still active in several countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, there is a growing debate on effects on economic development. To address such issues the representatives of privatization agencies of different nations established the African Privatization Network (APN) in November 1995. APN aims at promoting the concept of privatization and encouraging its implementation in African countries by sharing legislation and other relevant documentation; studying the nature and scope of privatization in each country according to its special circumstances and needs; and monitoring the process of privatization in Africa, identifying problems and obstacles and offering advice where required. The positive view of privatization suggests that it went ahead, in spite of domestic opposition, because politicians and bureaucrats perceived real benefits to themselves and their supporters. They could influence the sales to their own benefit, while, on the other hand, a more focused public sector improved service delivery. A well functioning private sector is essential for increasing economic growth and thus reducing poverty. Yet international development institutions recommend sophisticated policies to improve the business environment that governments in developing countries cannot successfully implement. The result is often a worsening of private sector performance. The promotion, support, financing, marketing and management of small and medium sized enterprises and industries is the core business of any privatisation programme. [ http://www.developmentgateway.org/node/130679/]

Marketing Plan For Tui Travel Plc Tourism Essay

Marketing Plan For Tui Travel Plc Tourism Essay This section resumes the marketing opportunities, strategy and financial objectives for senior manager who are in charge with the approval of the marketing plan. TUI Travel PLC is looking to extend its already integrated operations by opening a sightseeing division. The pilot will be executed in the UK, as London is one of the major destinations for overseas travellers. The company will be able to compete with the sightseeing at local level and the pilot out of London tour, which provides the same attractions as the three already established sightseeing tour operators. The product will be offered to all our customers, orientated principally to families and empty nesters. The primary marketing objective is in line with the corporate policies of integrating and offering customers a customised service suitable to their needs. 2 BUSINESS OVERVIEW TUI AG is considered the leading integrated tourism provider in Europe, it is divided in three sectors: TUI Travel PLC, TUI Hotels Resorts and the Cruise brands Hapag-Lloyd Kreuzfahrten and TUI Cruises. TUI Travel PLC was formed in 2007 by the merge of First Choice PLC and the Tourism Division of TUI AG. The company operates in four sectors: Mainstream, Specialist and Emerging Markets, Activity and Destination and Accommodation. According to Interbrand, the success of TUI AG as a corporation is the message embedded in its mission statement Putting a smile on peoples faces, along with their corporate culture of excellency aim to provide customers with an unforgettable experience during their holidays, while reinforcing sustainability in all its destinations. TUI Travel PLC possesses the strengths inherent from being part of a major corporation including brand awareness, comprehensive services, leading domestic player. The key opportunities come from the joint ventures and the growth in hotel industry. Its principal weakness is dependence in the European market; also face the threats of competition from low cost carriers and slowdown in the markets economy. Strengths Brand Awareness: TUI Travel PLC operates principally through First Choice and Thompson, both have a reputation for servicing the leisure travel customer, providing differentiated and flexible options to meet changes in demand. Comprehensive Services Having a broad range of services, the companys operations cover the whole tourism segments and the diverse stages of a holiday: from retail, tour operating, flying and accommodation up to additional services at the destination. The company owns a network of travel agencies with active presence in more than 15 markets in Europe, as well as a fleet of aircraft through TUI Fly. TUI Hotels provides hotel accommodation to its various destinations. Additionally, the company offers luxury and premium class cruise liners through its Hapag-Lloyd Kreuzfahrten joint venture. Leading domestic player The company supplies travel services for over 30 million customers from 27 source markets. It also provides airline services with a fleet of more than 146 aircraft and 350 retail shops in Europe. Additionally, TUI Hotels Resorts is considered the leading hotelier in Europe with around 243 hotels with approximately 154,000 beds in 28 countries. The major brands of hotels include Riu, Grupotel, Iberotel, Robinson, Grecotel, Magic Life, and Dorfhotel. Weaknesses Dependence on Europe TUI AG is greatly dependant on Europe for its income generation, around 79% of its revenues. High focus of operations in a single region increase the companys chances to more diverse risk exposure such as local factors i.e.: lower demand, severe weather conditions, labor strikes, change in regional laws and economic conditions, thus constraining the ability for growth. Opportunities Joint venture agreements In March 2009, TUI Travel and Air Berlin come into a long-term strategic partnership for their German sector flight segment, based on a cross ownership where TUI Travel, through a subsidiary, will have an interest of 19.9% in Air Berlin. Growing global hotels and motels industry The worldwide hotels and motels sector has observed a major growth in recent years. The industry performance is anticipated to recover further. With well-built geographic presence in hotel industry, TUI Hotel Motel is well positioned to take advantage of this opportunity head on. Treats Economic slowdown in Europe Since the companys revenues rely on the general economic conditions of the region and the economic position of Europe is projected to be weak after the recent chaos in financial markets and consumer attitude, it could reduce the demand for the companys products and services. Competition from low cost airlines Whereas traditional airlines are encountering rigorous challenges such as elimination of routes and reducing staff, the low cost sector carry on expanding at a incredible rate, trends show that the low cost carriers are becoming leading players on a considerable number of intra-European short -haul point-to-point routes. Strong competition from low cost airlines could negatively influence the companys operations. 3 MARKET OVERVIEW Although the tourism industry had a steady growth over the last few years, it is evident that it is not immune to the effects of economic and health alerts. According to the Office for National Statistics, the number of visits to the UK fell in 2008 for the first time since 2001, overseas residents made 31.9 million visits to the UK in 2008 compared with 32.8 million in 2007, a fall of 2.7 per cent. Despite the decline in the number of visits, spending on trips to the UK reached record levels during 2008; overseas residents coming to the UK spent a total of  £16.3 billion, an increase of 2.3 per cent on the 2007 figure (published 16th July 2009)  [1]   However the same office, has reported that in the three months to February 2010, compared with the previous three months, the seasonally adjusted results from the international Passenger Survey showed that: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Overseas residents visits to the UK increased by 2 per cent to 7.5 million. Figures for the most recent months are provisional and subject to revision in light of (a) more accurate data on passenger figures becoming available at the end of each quarter (published 15th April 2010)  [2]   Although the figures above only represent the winter trends, gives an indication of improvement in the market. TUI Travel PLC, could see such indication as an opportunity to get stronghold in the market in the future. 3.1 CUSTOMER INFORMATION The company uses a policy based on its brand identification, for example First Choice is aimed primarily to families, while Thompson has characterised its segment target to be oriented to couples and seniors. Both segments assumed to have additional disposable income. 3.2 SERVICE INFORMATION As previously stated, the company offers an integrated range of tourist services, personalised according to customers demands and needs. Thus, in order to integrate further its operations the aim of this project is to highlight the relevance of a sightseeing venture to facilitate the overseas customers visiting UK for example. 4 OBJECTIVES The key objectives for the UK sightseeing division under TUI Travel PLC are: Further integration of services provide to overseas customers. Continue with the differentiation policies in all products offers. Aim to carry 50% of UK visitors from its various brands to different sightseeing attractions during the first year of operations. The carrying rates are to rise on 20% on yearly basis thereafter. 5 STRATEGY The UK Sightseeing division will provided customers with a friendly, personalised experience while using professionals guides to accompany groups in their trips to the historic and most relevant sights. 5.1 PRODUCT Initially the products will encompass the following products: London tourist sights: Panoramic of London, Photo stop at Buckingham Palace, Photo stop at Saint Paul Cathedral, Lunch in a traditional English pub, cruise for the river Thames and entrance to the London Eye. Outside London: Entrance to the Windsor Castle, Roman Bath with walking tour of the historic town, Lunch in a traditional English pub in Salisbury and entrance to Stonehenge. Customers will be pick-up from their hotels at a pre-determine time in order to ensure that all passenger are present at time of departure. At the meeting point customers will be introduce to their guide for the day and will be taken to the vehicles designated for the chosen tour. 5.2 PRICE Considering that there is three more sightseeing tour operators in the UK, the prices should be in line with similar products offers by the competitors in order to maintain the demand for the products. However, since the business unit will be part of a package holiday, TUI Travel will surely achieve a higher level of economies of scale when contracting the services of suppliers involved on the operational side of the tours. 5.3 PLACE PROMOTION Stores: The Company have to its disposition over 650 retail shops around UK, which will give them a competitive advantage over its competitors, as the three major sightseeing operators only serve London through their call centres. Website: First Choice and Thompson both enjoy large websites, which are characterised for being user friendly and easy to navigate, thus any customer interested in additional services will be able to find the combination of products suitable to their needs. Search engines optimization: To improve the discovery of the websites, UK sightseeing division will ensure that links are built within key Internet search engines sites, as well as key word register to the main domains (i.e. holidays, short breaks, all inclusive, etc) Advertising: Once the operational site of the UK sightseeing division is up and running, TUI Travel will make the announcement through its major website, as well as to link the release news on the websites for all its subsidiaries within the group, to ensure that customers booking holidays in advance are aware of the new available services. Public Relations: Prior to the opening the company will invite representatives from its hotel portfolio to enjoy the tours offered and request feedback on their views as to evaluate the services in offer. The company will arrange for a formal launch of its new division, inviting relevant press representatives from major newspapers as well as tourism specialised magazines. Promotion: High quality brochure is to be promoted and make available in all hotels belonging to the group for display (concierge desk for example) available to all customer staying at the hotels. 5.4 PEOPLE Appropriate staff is essential for a service to be perceived and recognised by its customer. The difference between customer retention or not is mostly attributed to the way services and management customer techniques are delivered by a company. Staff must have the suitable interpersonal skills, attitude, and service knowledge to give the service that consumers are paying for.  [3]   TUI is very supportive when it comes to training and ongoing development and believes it is vital that people are given opportunities to learn throughout their career. The company has its own dedicated in-house Learning and Development team and there are many opportunities for development such as workshops on a variety of topics, one-to-one coaching, e-learning and where appropriate, TUI support their staff to undertake professional and vocational qualifications relevant to their role. All staff has regular one-to-one reviews with their managers to support their ongoing development and explore further opportunities for training and development.  [4]   5.5 PROCESSES Relates to the systems used to aid a company to deliver the service. The company will ensure that time tables are kept in order to avoid delays on the running of the tours. Make certain that customers place their lunch order in time during the morning tour, as to ascertain that lunch meal will be served according to schedule. Any complains or recommendation should be dealt promptly to maintain customer confidence. 5.6 PHISICAL EVIDENCE The physical evidence is an important element of the service mix, customers evaluate their perceptions based on their view of the service provided, having an impact on the organisations perceptual plan of the overall service.  [5]   Primary the company will aim to close the gap between customer expectations and company perception of the customer needs. 6 BUDGETS Item Date Cost Measure of success Website adjustment 30 May  £2500 Number of hits per month 3000 Payment to search engines adv to increase exposure 15 June  £13000 All subsidiaries sites carrying links Brochure 01 June  £10000 Deliver to all hotels in the group Advertising in specialised magazines 01 June  £10000 Monthly slot secure for 6 months Site hosting costs 15 June  £8000 Google, Mozila secure feature on first page Launching Night 15 June  £5000 300 people attendance  £35,500 7 ACTION PLAN Action May June July Aug Improvement of website 07 Logo design align with TUI Travel 15 Link website into Sub- websites 20 Advert in magazines 27 Invite reps from news papers and mag 01 Launch night 15 Brochure delivery 10 Complimentary tours 01 First customer running tour 10 Measure of passengers on tours 10 Evaluation of results/correctives if needed 15 8 Evaluation of Results During this face of the project, the aim is to evaluate the overall performance of the tours operational and tactical side. TUI Travel subsidiaries websites (First Choice and Thompson) have the capability of allowing customers to publish live comments on their experience. A team will be assigned to evaluate and quantify the comments in order to assess the performance of tours, and implement correctives if necessary. 9 Conclusion Where TUI Travel to implement the above plan, it will improve further their policy of differentiation and facilitate customer choices at the time of browsing for a package holiday with London as a destination. The assumption is that the new business unit will be implemented as a pilot project to evaluate its feasibility and acceptance from customers in general, local and overseas travellers. TUI AG, continue to endorse its mission statement even in the light of lost of revenue in the case of natural disasters; like the one recently experience due to the Volcanic ash from Island which closed European airspace for over a week. TUI Travel PLC, announced on the 21st April that they were implementing their crisis plans, which included provision of welfare to customers in resorts and commencing the repatriation action as soon as possible. Their plan contemplate repatriation through coaches, ferries and owned cruises and according to their estimation all of its customers will be back in England by Friday 23rd April. Measures implemented as above, form milestone for brand recognition and undoubtedly give customer peace of mind, as they are confident that their travel company cares about them and will do whatever takes to ensure a safe return home. Individual Critical Reflection of Learning Outcomes During the course of the subject Marketing Management, I came to realise that marketing is a complex theme. The models and other techniques studied where made easy to understand by the tutor and the evaluation of it through practical examples facilitate the assimilation of the material. Personally I feel that the simulation done through the Marketing Game software was critical for the understanding in how marketing a product affects the whole of an organisation, and how the decisions made in terms of cost/investment can have both, positive or negative outcomes. Another skill that was put to the test relates to communication, as in some cases we were grouped in teams to solve/discuss material regarding the subject matter. Regarding the assignment I found it quite difficult to tackle as, first English is my second language and 2nd although I have presented written works before they were in my mother tongue and oriented to practical experiences rather than research itself. As a next step, I will work through future assignments with more time in order to share my queries with my tutor, as to ensure that I have understood the approach to be evaluated with the written work.

Humbert the Pedophile Essay -- Essays Papers

Humbert the Pedophile Lolita, the novel by Vladimir Nabokov, tells the story of Humbert Humbert, who is a perfect example of a pedophile. Although the character Humbert Humbert describes his feelings toward the twelve year old Lolita as love, in actuality, it is obsessive lust. Nabokov does an excellent job displaying the characteristics of pedophilia through this character. Reading Lolita makes us conscious of the need to be more aware that pedophilia is alive and well in our society today. In developing this point, I will examine pedophilia and its clinical characteristics as they relate to Humbert Humbert and our society. While America sits smugly in front of it's televisions and computers, somewhere a pedophile fantasizes about fondling and holding a beautiful child in his arms. According to David Finkelhor's research in A Sourcebook on Child Sexual Abuse(43), pedophiles are adults, both male and female, who have a sexual preference toward prepubescent children (generally aged 13 or younger). It is important to realize that pedophilia does not always include child sexual abuse. The pedophile must act upon his desires before it is considered sexual abuse. Humbert, in fact, does act upon his urges by looking, fantasizing, and actually holding Lolita on his lap. In Aristos Bouius's essay, Pedophilia Versus Abuse, it is suggested that a real pedophile loves children and doesn't want to hurt them in any way, but rather wants a relationship with the child which can be an enjoyable and loving experience on both sides. Pedophiles often take on a parental role toward the child, and the child, craving love and attention, accepts the touching, holding or even the act of sex. Most likely, the child has never experienced "normal" par... ... 1970. 2) Briggs, Freda. From Victim to Offender. Australia, Allen & Unwin Pty Ltd. 1995 3) Finkelhor, David. A Sourcebook on Child Sexual Abuse. Newbury Park, Sage Publications Inc. 1986. 4) Ferguson, Donna. The Assault on America's Children. Newport Beach, CA., Harbor House Publishers, Inc. 1994. 5) Bouius, Aristo J. Pedophilia Versus Abuse. Simplex. 1996. Http://www. Simplex.nl/users/aristos/engels.htm 6) Medinger, Alan P DSM-IV and Pedophilia: What Did the APA Do? 1995 Http://www.messiah.eduthpages/facstaff/chase/h/articles/regene ra/dsm.htm 7) Medinger, Alan P. Pedophilia No Longer a Disorder Psychiatric Association Decides. 1994. Http://www.messiah.eduthpages.facstaff/chase/h/articles/regene ra/dsm.htm 8) Pedophilia Symptoms Mental Health Net and CMHC Systems, 1995- 1997. Http://www/cmhc.com/disorders/sx63.htm Humbert the Pedophile Essay -- Essays Papers Humbert the Pedophile Lolita, the novel by Vladimir Nabokov, tells the story of Humbert Humbert, who is a perfect example of a pedophile. Although the character Humbert Humbert describes his feelings toward the twelve year old Lolita as love, in actuality, it is obsessive lust. Nabokov does an excellent job displaying the characteristics of pedophilia through this character. Reading Lolita makes us conscious of the need to be more aware that pedophilia is alive and well in our society today. In developing this point, I will examine pedophilia and its clinical characteristics as they relate to Humbert Humbert and our society. While America sits smugly in front of it's televisions and computers, somewhere a pedophile fantasizes about fondling and holding a beautiful child in his arms. According to David Finkelhor's research in A Sourcebook on Child Sexual Abuse(43), pedophiles are adults, both male and female, who have a sexual preference toward prepubescent children (generally aged 13 or younger). It is important to realize that pedophilia does not always include child sexual abuse. The pedophile must act upon his desires before it is considered sexual abuse. Humbert, in fact, does act upon his urges by looking, fantasizing, and actually holding Lolita on his lap. In Aristos Bouius's essay, Pedophilia Versus Abuse, it is suggested that a real pedophile loves children and doesn't want to hurt them in any way, but rather wants a relationship with the child which can be an enjoyable and loving experience on both sides. Pedophiles often take on a parental role toward the child, and the child, craving love and attention, accepts the touching, holding or even the act of sex. Most likely, the child has never experienced "normal" par... ... 1970. 2) Briggs, Freda. From Victim to Offender. Australia, Allen & Unwin Pty Ltd. 1995 3) Finkelhor, David. A Sourcebook on Child Sexual Abuse. Newbury Park, Sage Publications Inc. 1986. 4) Ferguson, Donna. The Assault on America's Children. Newport Beach, CA., Harbor House Publishers, Inc. 1994. 5) Bouius, Aristo J. Pedophilia Versus Abuse. Simplex. 1996. Http://www. Simplex.nl/users/aristos/engels.htm 6) Medinger, Alan P DSM-IV and Pedophilia: What Did the APA Do? 1995 Http://www.messiah.eduthpages/facstaff/chase/h/articles/regene ra/dsm.htm 7) Medinger, Alan P. Pedophilia No Longer a Disorder Psychiatric Association Decides. 1994. Http://www.messiah.eduthpages.facstaff/chase/h/articles/regene ra/dsm.htm 8) Pedophilia Symptoms Mental Health Net and CMHC Systems, 1995- 1997. Http://www/cmhc.com/disorders/sx63.htm

3m Optical

3M Optical Systems: Managing Corporate Entrepreneurship MST550 – Capstone Professor Jack Raiton HBSP Case #395-017 Discussion Questions 1. What practices make 3M such an innovative company? 2. What is Any Wong’s role as the OS Unit’s general manager? How effective has he been? 3. What is Paul Guehler’s role as division vicepresident? How effective has he been? 4. What should Andy Wong do with the computer screen AFE? If he gets the AFE, should Guehler fund it? Case Outline †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ The Situation Background of 3M Corporation Internal Context at 3M Corporation Background of Optical Systems (OS) The Product is Born The Product is Reborn Wong’s Options Guehler’s Options Wong’s Role/Effectiveness Guehler’s Role/Effectiveness Desimone’s Role The Situation The 3M Corporation’s Optical Systems (OS) business unit needs to decide if they should proceed wi th the deployment of a new computer privacy screen despite two previous marketing failures. Background of 3M Corporation 100 Years of Innovation Highly Diversified Global Company †¢ â€Å"High-Tech†: Spends twice the U. S. Industry Average on R&D (6-7% of sales) †¢ Strong emphasis on new products and technologies †¢ Fosters individual’s innovation within the workforce (â€Å"15% rule†) Internal Context at 3M Corporation †¢ Respect for the individual – â€Å"Stimulate ordinary people to produce extraordinary performance† †¢ Supportive policies/practices – 15% bootleg rule – â€Å"Make a little, sell a little† †¢ High standards, stretch objectives – 10% sales growth, 20% PBT, 27% ROCE – 30% sales from new products Internal Context at 3M Corporation†¦cont. †¢ Acceptance of â€Å"well-intentioned failure† †¢ Share/leverage resources – â€Å"Technology belongs to company† Background of Optical Systems (OS) †¢ OS Track Record (1979-1990) – Formed in 1979 through consolidation of several 3M optical technologies – Experienced 11 year microlouver development effort with minimal products – Lost between 3 to 5 million dollars per year – â€Å"Technology in Search of a Market† †¢ OS Changes Focus (1991-1992) – In 1990 new top management appointed – Focus on applications for technology The Product is Born †¢ In late 1990, the OS Team launched the computer privacy screen †¢ Product used â€Å"microlouver† technology to offer privacy of screen information †¢ By early 1991 the OS Team saw poor market reaction due to the large number of sizes needed and high purchase price †¢ Product was modified and re-launched in late 1991 with minor changes, but to no avail The Product is Re-Born †¢ Through prior-product analysis, market research, and harnessing some of 3Ms other technologies, a 3rd generation was created and readied for market in 1992. It combined features of competitor’s such as anti-glare, anti-static and anti-radiation †¢ Was ready for decision on â€Å"Authority to Proceed† Wong’s Options Go †¢Learning from two previous launches †¢Met rigorous threephase process †¢Team closest to market, competition, technology (trust them, don’t second-guess) †¢Committed team (motivational imp act) †¢Last chance for OS †¢Wong must be the champion Postpone/Cancel †¢Poor market research †¢Poor product concept †¢Price too high †¢Unrealistic market share forecasts †¢Unrealistic risk assessment †¢Needs more data, further study Other Options †¢Self fund †¢Mentor’s support †¢Outsource Guehler’s Options Approve †¢ Project passed three-phase review – Shouldn’t second-guess now Reject/Send Back †¢ Recognize as â€Å"well intentional failure† †¢ Has other high-profile â€Å"Pacing Projects† †¢ Problems with product, price, marketing strategy †¢ Lacks internal support †¢ Cost relatively low ($750K) †¢ OS unit believes, committed †¢ Don’t want to kill OS unit – Big project in pipeline (Needs 30% new products) Wong’s Role/Effectiveness †¢ Attracting good people – Noirjean, Melby Developing/motivating his team, building unit’s capabilities †¢ Creating, pursuing growth opportunities †¢ Keeping management â€Å"in the boat† Guehler’s Role/Effectiveness †¢ Empower frontline manager to find/develop attractive opportunities †¢ Coach/nurture/support fron tline managers to develop confidence and capabilities †¢ Set standards/goals for and develop selfdiscipline among frontline †¢ Balance between discipline and support Desimone’s Role †¢ Sets, communicates, monitors standards and objectives †¢ Protects, reinforces norms and values – Respect for individual Primary focus on organizational context more than strategic content

Frank Lloyd Wright Essays - Frank Lloyd Wright, Taliesin

Frank Lloyd Wright Essays - Frank Lloyd Wright, Taliesin Frank Lloyd Wright Frank Lloyd Wright was born as Frank Lincoln Wright on June 8, 1867. He was born in Richland Center, which is in southern Wisconsin. His father, William Carey Wright, was a musician and a preacher. His mother, Anna Lloyd-Jones was a teacher. It is said that his mother placed pictures of great buildings in young Franks nursery as part of training him up from the earliest possible moment to be an architect. Wright spent some time growing up on a farm owned by his uncle, which was located near spring Green, Wisconsin. He was of Welch heritage, and was brought up in the Unitarian Religion. Wright briefly studied civil engineering at the university of Wisconsin in Madison, and then moved to Chicago to work at an architectural firm. In 1887, he was hired as a draftsman by the firm of Alder and Sullivan. At the time, the firm was designing Chicagos Auditorium Building. Wright eventually became the head draftsman, as well as the leader of the firms residential designs. After obtaining these responsibilities, Wright began to design and apply his own architectural ideas. In 1889, he married his first wife, Catherine Tobin. He also began designing houses, which was against his firms policy because they were required to follow the designs sent to them, not make their own. When his boss discovered this, Frank was fired. His house designs, however, were incredible. They showed the start of Wrights low, sheltering rooflines, the prominence of the central fireplace, and intricate geometric designs on both doors and windows. Wright started his own firm in 1893, working out of a studio that was built in onto his home in Oak Park, a suburb of Chicago. Between 1893 and 1901, 49 buildings by Wright were built. During this period he began to develop his ideas, which would come together in his Prairie House concept. Into 1909, he developed and refined the prairie style, and founded this concept in architecture, and his art of this early productive period in his life is also considered as part of the arts and crafts movement, because many of his designs not only had plans for the structure of the house, but ideas of decorating the interior as well. This very productive phase in Wrights career ended in 1909, when he left his wife and five children to go to Germany. He was joined there by Mamah Borthwick Cheney, the wife of a former client and now his girlfriend. From 1912 to 1914, Wright and Cheney lived together at Taliesin, a home he designed near his uncles farm in Spring Green, Wisconsin. This ended when a crazed servant murdered Chaney and six others, also setting a fire that destroyed most of Taliesin. During the years 1914 to 1932, Wright rebuilt Taliesin, divorced his first wife, married and separated form another woman (partially due to the fact that he spent some time in jail), and met his third wife, Olgivanna Milanoff. His architectural designs during this period included the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo, Japan, and many California homes. Few commissions were completed toward the end of this period, but Wright did lectures to various architects, and published articles, including An Autobiography in 1932. Wrights output became more organized and individualized, with the help of numerous apprentices who assisted in design detail and site supervision. His most famous work, Fallingwater, was designed in 1936. He also began working on a project called Taliesin West in Arizona. The Taliesin Associated Architects, The Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture, and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation are living legacies of what Mr. Wright founded in 1932. Few buildings were produced during the war years, but the G.I. Bill brought many new apprentices when the war ended. This post-war period to the end of his life was the most productive. He received 270 house commissions, and designed and built the price tower skyscraper, the Guggenheim Museum, and the Marin County Civic Center. Wright never retired; he passed away on April 9, 1959, at the age of 92 in Arizona. He was buried in the Graveyard at Unity Chapel at Taliesin in Wisconsin. In 1985, Olgivanna Wright passed away, and one of her wishes was to have Frank Lloyd Wrights remains cremated

Facebook Company

Facebook Company Introduction Facebook Corporation was established by the current chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg in 2004. In its inception days, the Facebook Corporation membership was limited to Harvard students though it was later expanded to other institutions in the city of Boston (Veer, 2011, p.271). The company operates as a social networking site connecting users with friends who work, live and study around them.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Facebook Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More People use Facebook to keep up with others, upload photos, share videos and links as well as understand the situation about people they meet. Of all social networking sites Facebook has the widest regional coverage with over 700 million active users (Facebook Inc, 2011, p.36). PESTEL analysis Since the establishment of Facebook Inc, the company has been facing legal proceeding in regard to the use of the social networking idea. The company has been accused of interfering with the privacy of the users. This resulted in declining traffic in key markets until the company introduced powerful controls for sharing personal information. Although they claim to reinforce the law on users, case of hacking confidential information still affect the company’s business (Facebook, 2009, pp.1-11). Another political factor could be the copyright policies. Considering the scattered nature of Facebook users, most of them are not aware of these policies and end up violating them. The social network site is also affected by bans in certain countries. For instance, the company had been banned operating in China since 2009 (Facebook, 2011, p.36). Children welfare associations affect the company as a result of exposing detrimental materials to children. Indeed, the office of the New York Attorney General stepped up warnings against the company saying that Facebook might face a consumer fraud indict for misrepresenting how the site is safe for children. The growing of Asian and Latin America economies is an economic factor that has the highest leverage on the business. In fact, the company fiscal 2011 plan is to expand to the Asian countries such as China.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The company plans to launch in China and abide by the laws of the corporation by partnering with the Chinese search engine Baidu. These growing economies increase the income of the people and are able to access computers more. The rising literacy level especially in the developing nations is a factor influencing the business. The number of people who can use computers effectively is growing dramatically. For example, statistics indicate that 60% of the Indians are computer literate and 90% of them have daily access to the computer. This is the very reason why India has the highest number of people so cializing through Facebook and other social sites. The other economic factor is employment which is associated with internet accessibility. People working tend to have ample access to computers and are able to socialize more through the social sites. Facebook is ranked at the top when considering the preference of the working community to social networking sites. Like other internet sites, age demographic is the major influencing factor of Facebook business (Taylor et al., 2003, p.237). Youths tend to be the major users of the site when connecting with their peers. The minors are increasingly using Facebook to socialize posing risks to the business. In reality, the company has not devised effective measure to filter underage uses out of the site. Religion is also a factor that is affecting the company’s business especially in the Arab countries. Facebook has been unable to penetrate many of the Arab countries such as Saudi Arabia and Pakistan due to religion restrictions. In addition to these, gender and marital status could leverage the networking business. Males have been the dominant users of the social networking sites though females have picked the same pace. Unmarried individuals tend to use Facebook more than married individuals perhaps due to time limitations or benefits sort.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Facebook Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Technological factors affecting Facebook business include mobile growth. Nearly 35% of the total Facebookers access the social site from a mobile device. This trend has even moved the mobile market for products like Apple’s iPad and iPhone. New software technologies have enabled the company to add new features on their site which are attracting more consumers (Kwon, 2010, p.257). In terms of these features, the chat option is the biggest attraction to the site followed by the sharing option. Advancement in space techno logy is also expanding the market for the business. Many remote areas have accessibility to information technology through the use of space equipment. Furthermore, connectivity speed has improved very much and people can socialize fast and effectively. Some new technologies such as third-party medial plug-ins have expanded the use of Facebook credits thus enhancing e-commerce. Besides, technology allows for business transactions to be conducted through Facebook site and therefore attract a new segment of consumers. Undeniably, technological advancement is the key enabler of Facebook business. TOWS analysis SWOT Matrix Strengths Global popularity Easy user interface Wide applications Weaknesses Advertisement effectiveness Frequent litigations and lawsuits Opportunities Rising internet usage Need of social engagement Threats Customer privacy issues Intense competition Regulations by various countries TOWSÂ  Alternative Matrix External opportunities (O) Rising internet usage Need of social engagement External threats (T) Customer privacy issues Intense competition Regulations by various countries Internal strengths (S) Global popularity Easy user interface Wide applications SO Use the wide applications to meet the needs for social engagement Use global popularity to attract the increasing number of users ST Utilize the wide applications to counteract customer privacy issues Utilize mergers to counteract regulations Use the easy interface to differentiate in the completion Internal weaknesses (W) Advertisement effectiveness Frequent litigations and lawsuits WO Strengthen objectives to curbthe effect of advertising effectiveness Enforce laws to avoid frequent litigations and lawsuits WT Maintain customer privacy toavoid lawsuits and litigations Differentiate in the competition and enhance competitive advantage Weaknesses and threats (WT) A company with great weaknesses has to route to a survival strategy (Stokes Wilson, 2010, p.225). Faceboo k should consider the option of joint operation with Baidu and other search engines in difficult markets. Another alternative would be to withdraw from the challenging markets altogether.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More But, the challenges of the company must not have to route to a survival strategy due to the company’s strengths. Consequently, better strategy would be to attempt to develop weaknesses into strengths. Weaknesses and opportunities (WO) The rising internet usage has resulted in using more the social network sites. Yet Facebook essentially follows a one-model policy which presents a problem if other designs of site features become obsolete. The company has to introduce new features to reach a wider spectrum of users. This will allow using the same site for a range of needs ranging from business to dating. Strengths and threats (ST) One of the biggest threats to Facebook is the customer privacy issues. There has been continued criticism that the company does not offer the standard confidentiality demanded in a social networking environment. The company should reduce such issues using the many applications available that can ensure maximum confidentiality. Another strategy for avo iding competitive pressure is to differentiate the site through easy user interface. Strengths and opportunities (SO) Generally, Facebook can build on their strengths by taking the advantage of the opportunities. The company’s strength in global coverage and popularity becomes evident. This strength can enable the company to develop a consumer relationship that attracts regulatory restricted environments. Eventually, the strength will enable the company to open operation in China and Arab countries. Thus Facebook can benefit from considerable concessions offered by the governments to attract the company. Conclusions Facebook Company is certainly operating in a tricky environment due to the changing nature of communication and networking environment. The environment is tricky because there in increasing preference for social networks yet the technology responsible cannot meet the intrinsic demand of the consumers. Policies regulating social medial works have requirements beyon d the ability of technology. This attracts other groups of interests while regulations in some countries cannot be fully satisfied. However, the growing economy and advancement in technology promise a brighter future for the company. If Facebook can exploit the opportunity of rising usage of the internet through its global coverage, there is a chance of attracting policy makers in other countries and maybe adjust regulations. There is a chance to develop the weaknesses into new strengths once the company is better positioned in the market. Since the market of social media environment is quite demanding, Facebook must focus on its core resources and competencies. In this case, integration of features and ease of use are distinctive resources that can enable effective differentiation in the competition. When combined with the threshold resource of regional coverage, the competencies can leverage the brand name in the face of consumers as well as policy makers. It is therefore recommen ded that the company should: Use the status updates to provide targeted adverts Focus on monetization to improve valuations Provide local advertising based on customer location Enable controlled application Improve in storage and archival Engage in mergers with search engines Solve the problem of privacy References Facebok Inc. 2009. Facebook law enforcement guidelines. Web. Facebook Inc 2011. Private Company financial report. Web. Kwon, O. Wen, Y. 2010. An empirical study of the factors affecting social network service use. Computers in Human Behavior, 26(2), pp.254-263. Stokes, D. Wilson, N. 2010. Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship. Florence, KY: Cengage Learning EMEA. Taylor, W. J., Zhu, G. X., Dekkers, J. Marshall, S. 2003. Socio-economic factors affecting home internet usage patterns in Central Queensland. Information Science Journal, 6, pp.233-244.

What I Learned Traveling in Israel without a Tour Bus

What I Learned Traveling in Israel without a Tour Bus On May 1st, I did something I haven’t done in over 10 years: I got on a plane and flew to a foreign country. I had been to Israel before, but only on pre-programmed tours. Here are some snippets of what I learned as a solo traveler traveling in Israel, visiting friends and giving a presentation as an international speaker at Google Campus Tel Aviv: Day 1: Arrival When traveling in Israel, it pays to have an official European style adapter for a MacBook Pro charger. The only way I could get my charger to work was to find a diagonal plug or a power strip on the ground. Anything else would not hold the bulky charger. Day 2: Hod Hasharon Get oriented. And don’t wander out on a 103-degree day without a hat and sunglasses, without knowing in which direction to take the bus. Don’t be shy about calling your friend for help. She will be willing to take you to the bus stop and save you from sunstroke. The buses don’t come on time. Don’t expect them to. Sometimes you’ll just need to take a taxi. The taxis don’t take credit cards, but they’ll accept U.S. dollars. When attending a yoga class in Hebrew, it’s a good idea to tell the yoga instructor that you don’t speak Hebrew. She’ll be much more likely to throw in English as necessary. Sh’efa, ven’shifah = Breathe in, Breathe out Thought you could get mixed greens in Israel that don’t include arugula? Think again. The buses don’t come on time in the afternoon either. Day 3: Swimming, Shopping and Shabbat If you’re nice to the lifeguard at the outdoor pool at the moshav, he’ll let you in for free, even if you’re not a member. The Central Bus Station in Jerusalem is like a small city. Be sure to have a shekel on hand to use the restroom! â€Å"King (Melech) Halvah† has the best halvah in Israel. And they give tastes! The dates in Israel are 10x better than anything you’ll get in the States. Don’t keep walking in sandals after they have worn a cut on your foot. The bike path in Jerusalem is beautiful, bordered by lavender and rosemary, and a lovely place to walk on Friday night. Do not expect to eat Shabbat dinner before 9pm, and do not expect it to be over until midnight. Expect deep conversation. Light your own set of candles if you’re in Israel for Shabbat, even if at first you think it’s okay to bless candles lit by someone else. Day 4: Shabbat in the Old City and Ein Karem Sleeping late on Saturday is the way to go after a late Shabbat dinner. Those yoga videos you purchased on special and downloaded onto your computer? They are great for a country that shuts down on Saturdays! There are stores and restaurants open on Saturdays in Jerusalem!   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The stones on the walkways in the Old City are treacherously slippery. If your shoes slip, wear bare feet. You might offend some people, but at least you will not wipe out. When you see a door you are compelled to open, open it and wander in. You might be surprised at what you find. And your friend who didn’t want to see the art exhibit might just end up having multiple people she knows in common with the artist.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   If you ask someone if you can pick fruit from their loquat tree, they will probably say yes. Loquats are delicious and pair well with those amazing dates. Always have cash on hand when traveling in Israel. Machines that are supposed to accept credit cards, well, sometimes don’t. Day 4: Dancing and Yad Vashem When assisting at a movement class for the elderly in Jerusalem, wear a high-cut top or some of the ladies might get offended. The men have no problem with it. Plan to spend a whole day at Yad Vashem (the Holocaust Museum) when traveling in Israel. The hours of testimonials are riveting. Four hours just isn’t enough. Don’t put money on your â€Å"Rav Kav† (transportation card) on the Jerusalem light rail if you want to use the money for a bus in Tel Aviv. Day 5: Joy Gym This is the land of the Bible. Where there is lightning, there could be hail. Be on the lookout for shelter. You can run into some interesting characters at Joy Gym in Hod Hasharon, including Eli Danker, an Israeli actor who teaches acting to Martha Graham dancers in New York, and usually plays a terrorist. You can look him up on IMDb. â€Å"Itzuvlates† with Rotem at Joy Gym is one of the best and most challenging fitness classes you’ll ever find! â€Å"Itzuv† means sculpting – so Itzuvlates is a combo sculpting and Pilates. The instructor is really encouraging too! There really is no way to get those light rail tickets converted to normal money on the Rav Kav. Try as you might. The 8-hour time difference between the US and Israel is great for freedom in the mornings; not so great for having any freedom in the evenings or for going to bed at a decent hour! If you take the bus to an address but it’s in the wrong city, you will be very late getting to your cousins’ house and probably not get to play with the baby. A 10-minute car ride can take an hour on 3 buses. Oy. Day 6: Artists and Eateries If you’re in Tel Aviv on a Tuesday, be sure to go to the Artist’s Market. You’ll find some beautiful objects there! I bought a Shabbat set that holds tealights instead of the tall white candles I grew up with, and a turquoise scarf with butterflies! Then wander over to Ouzeria, a restaurant with a Greek twist, patronized by locals – best food I had while I was in Israel! Office buildings in Tel Aviv can look like this: Bargaining is all about the facial expression. Biggest win: A chunk of halvah knocked down from 45nis (shekels) to 30nis. Score! Day 7: Google Campus Tel Aviv Office buildings in Israel can also look like this:   Ã‚   Israelis can be an enthusiastic and challenging crowd! Networking meetings can be set up on a dime. I met the next day with a recruiter who attended my presentation! The Mexican chocolate popsicles at the Sarona Mall are worth the trip. Day 8: Final Day It doesn’t take long to make friends at the gym. Eli Danker was there again! It’s possible to live in Israel without speaking a word of Hebrew. I met another client who lives there and works for the U.S. federal government and she knows one phrase: â€Å"Tax receipt†! Landver might be a chain, but they have really great food, from salads to smoothies to pasta. Yoga classes at Joy Gym are not for advanced students. Stick to EllaYoga! A gathering of 6-8 people can be created on a dime. People show up! Lovely evening at the outdoor seating at Landver. Day 9: Farewell Israel! Taxis come 15 minutes early in Hod Hasharon. Better than 15 minutes late! Your friends in Israel will want you to move there. Refrigerator magnets at the airport are a great way to spend those last shekels. Leaving Israel feels sad. Already looking forward to the next trip. L’hitraot (until we see each other again)! Category:Blog ArticleBy Brenda BernsteinMay 15, 2018 10 Comments Maitri Meyer says: May 15, 2018 at 10:22 am AWESOME Trip! Thanks so much for sharing the tips you learned along the way Log in to Reply Brenda Bernstein says: May 15, 2018 at 11:07 am Thanks Maitri! I added one more line: Remember youre in the land of the Bible. Where theres lightning, there could be hail. Find cover! Log in to Reply Rebecca Herson says: May 15, 2018 at 12:16 pm Great post! Glad to see some of our joint activities made the cut (mmm Mexican chocolate popsicles). And yes, you should definitely move here! Log in to Reply Brenda Bernstein says: May 15, 2018 at 12:19 pm Thanks Rebecca! Of course our joint activities made the cut they were some of the best parts of my trip. Im glad we were able to spend so much time together! Log in to Reply Hayden Fink says: May 15, 2018 at 2:13 pm Israel is an exciting place to visit. I am glad that you had a positive experience and enjoyed your time there. Thanks for sharing the pics and details from your trip! Next time try and visit Safed, one of my favorite places in Israel. Log in to Reply Brenda Bernstein says: May 15, 2018 at 2:15 pm Thank you, Hayden! Yes Ive heard Safed is a wonderful place to spend Shabbat I will definitely go there next time! Log in to Reply Barry Shrut says: May 15, 2018 at 2:43 pm Thanks so much for sharing. Beautiful pix and you rekindled memories of our family trip to Israel about 8 years ago. We booked a private guide and had an exquisite time, visiting Tel Aviv, Haifa, Golan Heights, Beit Shean, Jerusalem and Dead Sea. Log in to Reply Brenda Bernstein says: May 15, 2018 at 3:11 pm Youre welcome, Barry. That sounds like a beautiful trip! Next time I will try to visit more of those sites. I did go to many of them in my previous trips, but that was a long time ago! Log in to Reply Vladimir Starov says: May 16, 2018 at 11:40 am Wonderful notes from your trip! I learned new tips although I visited Israel 7-8 times in the past, the last time almost 10 years ago. Time to go back and visit Landver! Log in to Reply Brenda Bernstein says: May 16, 2018 at 11:50 am Thanks for your comment, Vladimir. Im sure you would teach me a lot more everyones experience is unique and worth sharing! Log in to Reply

What would be the impact of a world dominated by female political Essay

What would be the impact of a world dominated by female political leaders - Essay Example More importantly, the discipline of the political science, the study of the female leaders in such setting as in political grounds can adequately shade light not solely on gender or even leadership but also on the elites within politics in general. In a general sense, it can easily be understood how power is attained in particular contexts, which could even lead to more generalizable theories within the leadership setting in the world (Kassem, 2013). For instance, when the political experts evaluate and examine the factors that generally affect the male leaders they definitely discover that it is indeed quite difficult to isolate the impacts of the single variables or even in distinguishing a single factor from another one. In a few respects, the feminist analysis clearly enhances the understanding of the political leadership. The feminist perspectives generally paint an alternative view of women as the national leaders although it as well points to the larger lessons from the general study of leadership. In the recent past, the status of the women in the field of politics has captured the advanced imagination of the spectators around the world. From research, a little is known on the women politicians because much of it tends to focus mostly on the women in the legislative and not in the executive offices. A reason for that is directly related to greater success that the female leaders globally have been keen on obtaining the legislative slots as opposed to the executive (Krook, 2010). Nearly, over the last half century the women have significantly made advances in the labor force participation, education, and in the political activism throughout the world. The gender gaps however still are experienced in the low-income nations although they are quite smaller than in the previous decades. In the high and the middle-income countries, many of the gaps have consistently been reversed. Women have been found overtaking men in most areas of

Decision traps and biasis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Decision traps and biasis - Essay Example For example, if the probability of a person having AIDS is 0.0001, but a test shows that 100 people out of 10,000 have the disease, a person will tend to think that the population has a higher chance of having AIDS, rather than considering the an\mount of false positives. The gambler’s fallacy is when an individual erroneously believes that the occurrence of a certain event is based on the occurrence of a previous event; believing that since an event has occurred a lot of times, it will not occur again in the near future. Anchoring with insufficient adjustment occurs when an individual tries to make a decision by considering the first instance of the decision variable and adjusting upwards or downwards without considering whether the variable selected is sufficient for the decision. The other factor that affects individual when making a decision is overconfidence, an instance when an individual thinks that the probability of being right is very high, therefore, leading the individual to think that a negative outcome cannot be expected. This also leads to search for information that only confirms a decision, instead of looking for information that supports both the positive and negative sides of a decision. The search for only confirming information will lead an individual to make a decision without considering the negative implications. The last factor, hindsight bias, occurs when an individual considers events as more predictable than they really are, leading the individual to make wrong decisions. The biases listed above can be avoided by a simple sequence of events; finding the decision problem, gathering as much information on the problem as possible, and dividing the information into positive and negative effects. After this is done, a decision should be made based purely on the pros and cons identified, or the individual can consult other individuals to help in the decision-making process. The individual can also look at the

Universal Pocket Prescription Card, Behavioral Economics Paper Essay

Universal Pocket Prescription Card, Behavioral Economics Paper - Essay Example Policy-makers and public or nonprofit administrators need to address the problem of failure to use the universal pocket prescription card by medical care consumers. The study also provides an insight into the economic benefits if using the universal pocket prescription card. The card acts as a remedy to various problems associated with escalating costs of medical care. Policymakers should implement the utilization of comprehensive Pocket Prescription Card because it can be in case there have been changes in the economic, medical cost. Policymakers should implement policies that support the utilization of Universal Pocket Prescription Card (Janssen et al., 2014). Universal pocket prescription cards are cards that are designed to fit a pocket of even a wallet of the user. They provide an easy and very effective strategy in the recording of personal information. The information may include names and dosages of prescribed drugs. The drugs may be over the counter, herbal, vitamins, and even supplements. The card also stores other details such as how the medicine should be and at what time it should be made. Universal medical cards are used to give caregivers more information. They help to minimize the economic problems that might be in the giving of health care (Boyer, 2009). There has been a projection by economists that there will increase in the medical cost. A rate of 7 percent is expected, calling on employees to try and control expenses by changing policies that shift costs to the workers. Because of the costs that might be behavioral economic predicts that people are most likely to adopt the use of universal pocket cards. It is because this reduces the chances for inappropriate prescription and increase opportunities for proper diagnosis. In the United States, it has been shown that non-compliance with medical

Troy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Troy - Essay Example Similar to many early writers for whom history was more of the same kind to literature than science, Homer freely included the gods and their perceived assistances alongside real historical figures and actual events. From a certain point of view, it could be said he set an example, not just for future religions but for the movies. He took a true story and added fictional characters where needed. Troy depicts different areas that influenced people, then and now - power, beauty, riches, glory and wisdom. The lust and greed for power have polluted the minds of many "great" people especially those high ranking officials who call themselves servants of people but is not capable of serving them instead they turned to be crooked and corrupt. As the famous saying says, "Nature is enough for humans' need but not enough for humans' greed." Also the movie shows how the fornication committed by Paris to Helen destroys thousands and thousands of lives. The beauty that blinded the heart of the beholder moved him to do a little foolishness that is heavier than wisdom and than honor. An account from the Bible in I Corinthians 6:18 say -"Flee fornication. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits fornication sins against his own body." You only not sin to God but also to your own body.

The Role of Context in Biblical Hermeneutics Essay

The Role of Context in Biblical Hermeneutics - Essay Example Context plays a central role in the act of biblical interpretation. This paper is an attempt to demonstrate how this is so, and why this is so. It begins with a brief examination of the role of context in communication in general, which will then be applied to the activity of textual interpretation using the concept of the hermeneutic circle as developed by Frederich Schliermacher and Hans Georg Gadamer. Consider the following statement: â€Å"The Monkees are the greatest band ever.† On the face of it, the meaning seems obvious. It is a statement of the relative worth of The Monkees by comparison to all other musical acts throughout history. It implies that when compared with, say, the Rolling Stones, The Beatles, The Metropolitan Opera Company, and all of the Homeric bards, that the Monkees come out on top. However, this is not necessarily the meaning the statement is intended to convey. If it is said in a grave voice, it may mean just this. If it is said in an excited voice while at a concert, we may take it as earnest hyperbole. However, if it is said in a hipster infested coffeehouse, we may take it to mean precisely the opposite. The meaning of any statement is subject to the same sort of factors. Their sense cannot be determined by the examination of the mere words used, rather they must be understood with reference to the total situation in which they are spoken. As this is with spoken communication, so it is with written texts. To return this to Biblical matters, we may examine the following Biblical quotation: â€Å"He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.†1 If this statement is truly taken without context, it makes a most surprising assertion. Namely, that God is a rock. Further, we find, with some surprise, that God, unlike other, more common examples of rocks, is the sort of rock that judges, and is just. One might wonder how to distinguish between ju st and unjust rocks, and indeed whether God is igneous, metamorphic or sedimentary. However, when this passages is juxtaposed with other descriptions of God found throughout the Bible, what is at first nonsensical transparently reveals itself to be metaphor. Of course, the above example is not entirely serious. No one has ever thought to read this passage as literally suggesting that God is a rock. However, this alone reveals something. Namely that everyone, instinctively, takes into account the surrounding passages, and the whole of their knowledge of the Bible when interpreting single verses. Further it sharply shows the dangers of taking biblical quotations out of context. One may ask how this works, and just how much of a role that context plays in this process. One approach would be to argue that context completely determines the meaning of individual statements, however, this seems as absurd as maintaining that context plays no role at all. It must be the case that context and statement both bear some weight in understanding a text. The German biblical and classical scholar Frederich Schliermacher proposed an interesting way to understand this relationship.2 When interpreting any text, he maintained, the part is always understood through the whole. Conversely, the whole is always understood by means of the individual parts. The relation is reciprocal. This reciprocal relation is usually referred to as â€Å"the hermeneutic circle.† An example may help to make clear how this works. One may find oneself reading through a political blog post and find oneself agreeing with it. Two-thirds of the way through, the author makes a blatantly bigoted statement. This, should, of course, give the reader pause, and the work of

Assignment 1 in Psychology Research Method Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

1 in Psychology Research Method - Assignment Example The first group was handled daily from 3 to 14 weeks of age, the second from 7 to 14 weeks of age and the third received no handling from birth to 14 weeks. Different experimenters handled each kitten on different days. "Handling" was defined as an experimenter holding a kitten on his/her lap while petting it for 15 minutes. Friendliness was measured by how long each kitten stayed with the experimenter when not restrained, and by how long it took each kitten to reach the experimenter. Karsh found that the kittens handled from 3 to 14 weeks stayed longer with the experimenter and ran more quickly to the experimenter than kittens handled from 7 to 14 weeks. Also, kittens handled from 7 to 14 weeks were more "friendly" than kittens who received no handling at all. Karsh concluded that kittens should be handled as early as possible to ensure life-long friendliness towards humans. What are the possible confounds in Karsh’s experimental design: The possible confounds in Karsh’s experimental design are the way experimenters handled each kitten on different days. Each experimenter will hold a kitten on his/her lap while petting it differently for 15 minutes. The petting a kitten will be different for each experimenter and each kitten will feel it differently. This have affect on both handling and friendliness in cats. An investigator believed that sensory deprivation inhibits the intellectual development of animals. He ran an experiment to examine this thesis in the following way. He used two rats, each of which had just given birth to eight pups. One rat and her litter were placed in a large cage. This cage had ample space and lots of objects to explore. The baby rats in this cage breastfed off their mother. The second rat’s pups were separated from the mother, and each was placed in a separate cage. These cages were quite small, and the only objects they could see or hear were the four walls and the food and water

Troy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Troy - Essay Example Similar to many early writers for whom history was more of the same kind to literature than science, Homer freely included the gods and their perceived assistances alongside real historical figures and actual events. From a certain point of view, it could be said he set an example, not just for future religions but for the movies. He took a true story and added fictional characters where needed. Troy depicts different areas that influenced people, then and now - power, beauty, riches, glory and wisdom. The lust and greed for power have polluted the minds of many "great" people especially those high ranking officials who call themselves servants of people but is not capable of serving them instead they turned to be crooked and corrupt. As the famous saying says, "Nature is enough for humans' need but not enough for humans' greed." Also the movie shows how the fornication committed by Paris to Helen destroys thousands and thousands of lives. The beauty that blinded the heart of the beholder moved him to do a little foolishness that is heavier than wisdom and than honor. An account from the Bible in I Corinthians 6:18 say -"Flee fornication. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits fornication sins against his own body." You only not sin to God but also to your own body.

Assignment 1 in Psychology Research Method Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

1 in Psychology Research Method - Assignment Example The first group was handled daily from 3 to 14 weeks of age, the second from 7 to 14 weeks of age and the third received no handling from birth to 14 weeks. Different experimenters handled each kitten on different days. "Handling" was defined as an experimenter holding a kitten on his/her lap while petting it for 15 minutes. Friendliness was measured by how long each kitten stayed with the experimenter when not restrained, and by how long it took each kitten to reach the experimenter. Karsh found that the kittens handled from 3 to 14 weeks stayed longer with the experimenter and ran more quickly to the experimenter than kittens handled from 7 to 14 weeks. Also, kittens handled from 7 to 14 weeks were more "friendly" than kittens who received no handling at all. Karsh concluded that kittens should be handled as early as possible to ensure life-long friendliness towards humans. What are the possible confounds in Karsh’s experimental design: The possible confounds in Karsh’s experimental design are the way experimenters handled each kitten on different days. Each experimenter will hold a kitten on his/her lap while petting it differently for 15 minutes. The petting a kitten will be different for each experimenter and each kitten will feel it differently. This have affect on both handling and friendliness in cats. An investigator believed that sensory deprivation inhibits the intellectual development of animals. He ran an experiment to examine this thesis in the following way. He used two rats, each of which had just given birth to eight pups. One rat and her litter were placed in a large cage. This cage had ample space and lots of objects to explore. The baby rats in this cage breastfed off their mother. The second rat’s pups were separated from the mother, and each was placed in a separate cage. These cages were quite small, and the only objects they could see or hear were the four walls and the food and water

Money as a Motivator Essay Example for Free

Money as a Motivator Essay This paper will discuss the subject of money as a motivator. In addition to research and a cohesive review of literature it will include two interviews with prominent managers which will be analyzed to further enrich the knowledge of the subject by taking advantage of their hands-on experience. I- Introduction: Money, A motivator?Money! That is the violent war between employers and employees. Indeed, motivating employees through the use of money as a material reward or motivator for work achievement is and has always been a matter of controversy. Many theorists tackling motivation theories, human nature in general and motivation in particular, have accordingly examined this issue and yet they did not give the same answer as whether money can motivate workers for work or not. This shall form the main core of this projectBut before tackling this sensitive issue, let us see what does Motivation in general entails? Motivation suggests the strong desire to do ones job well with an initiation to receive a complement either of moral or material satisfaction. Employers have employed material incentives in the form of extra hours with extra pay, some others give too much importance to the stability of the workers with satisfying their necessaries of life; whereas others have much stressed human relations, good contacts with prospective outcomes, promotion, and occupation with high responsibilities potential. There is no shortage of theories about motivation, and the relation between money and motivation in particular was central to most of them since money has always been held as the bread and butter of each worker and the carrot or the stick with which the employers control the goal achievement processes. Next we briefly review some of the most important motivation theories and there approach on money. II- Review of literature and previous studies:(A) Theories of Human motivation and their relation to money:* The Hierarchy of NeedsThis theory is probably the best-known motivation theory. It was coined by Abraham Maslow during the 1940s and 1950s. In essence, it states that our motivations are dictated primarily by the circumstances we find ourselves in, and that certain lower needs need to be satisfied before we are  motivated towards higher accomplishments. Maslow indicated five distinct stages, starting at physiological needs and ending at self-actualization needs. In practice, the first stage in the hierarchy, the physiological stage, which contains the needs the employee first tries to satisfy such as food, shelter†¦ indicates that pay is a good motivator within this stage. Money is the supplier of food, medicine, shelter, clothing†¦ but as soon as thee basic needs become satisfied and the employee moves to higher stages within the hierarchy, pay becomes less and le ss a motivator. Money cant buy safety, a sense of belonging, self esteem or self actualization. * Theory X and Theory YIn 1960, Douglas McGregor advanced the idea that managers had a major part in motivating staff. He essentially divided managers into two categories Theory X managers who believe that their staff are lazy and will do as little as they can get away with; and Theory Y managers who believe that their people really want to do their best in their work. Theory X managers believe that staff will do things if they are given explicit instructions with no wiggle room, and plenty of stick if they dont do what they are supposed to do. Theory Y managers believe their people work their best when empowered to make appropriate decisions. Managers who follow theory Xs approach, tend to rely greatly on money as both a motivator and a tool of control. Theory Y managers tend to focus also on non-monetary motivators and rely less and less on money in motivating their staff. With advances in management theories, Theory Y has begun to replace Theory X as the dominant management philo sophy in many organizations and money began to seem as a less effective tool for motivation as we will later see. * Dual Factor TheoryAnother theory to gain prominence at this time was Frederick Hertzbergs Dual Factor theory. He identified two separate groups of factors that had a strong bearing on motivation. He called the first group hygiene factors, because they strongly influenced feelings of dissatisfaction amongst employees. Hygiene factors include working conditions, pay, and job security. According to Hertzberg, they dont motivate employees as such, but if they are not there, they can adversely affect job performance. He referred to the other group as motivation factors because they had a role in positively influencing performance   such as achievement, career progression and learning. Hertzberg went on to state that you can forget about workforce motivation if you dont get the hygiene factors right first of all, so you have to get the pay part of the equation right. But he saw pay as not being an actual motivator in the work place. You can create disgruntle employees with less money, but you cant create a motivated employee with more cash. * Equity TheoryJohn Stacy Adams posited another theory in 1965, looking at how motivation was affected by the degree of fairness within an organization, particularly within a group of peers. Consider the situation where nine sales representatives are given a company Mercedes, but one of them is given a Toyota, even though that person believes he did just as good a job as his colleagues. How would that last sales representative feel? Now theres nothing wrong with a Toyota, but by comparing ones own circumstances to the treatment of others in a similar situation, very intense feelings can be experienced. These feelings could lead to intense positive or negative motivations. Its here that money can become a serious de-motivator or even a source of conflict if distribution was not seen as fair. No matter how insignificant the monetary value, a lower raise will be seen as an unfair evaluation of ones self-conceived performance relative to others and the intended motivating effect will be transformed into a strong feeling of inferiority and injustice. In practice, managers need to be careful in distributing money incentives within a group of peers because of the emotions this can engender. *Expectancy TheoryVictor Vroom in 1964 put forward the notion that people are driven by the likelihood of genuine success in achieving particular objectives. Three barriers need to be jumped by managers if they want to motivate their people to succeed. First of all, they need to connect the task to be performed to the likelihood of better results. Secondly they need to set expectations that there are positive benefits to the employee in achieving those results, and thirdly they need to ensure that these benefits are of value to the employee. For instance, there is no point asking your employees to be happy about coming in a half-hour early in future if you cant properly explain how this will lead to eventual real benefits for the  employees themselves. Benefits also should be properly assessed, some employees rank money low on their priority lists, and others give it precedence over other benefits. Setting expectations for benefits that are not valued by employees will not work, ma nagers should not take for granted that money is all that matters and probe for other benefits the employees may consider superior. * Money as a MotivatorThis theory states that all workers are motivated primarily by the need for money; so if you want to get the most out of your workforce, you pay them more. This has particular effectiveness in areas where payment is directly linked to the accomplishment of objectives. This theory is prevalent in many businesses in the form of performance-related pay, incentives, bonuses and promotion schemes. While few would argue that it does not have some validity (indeed it is the driver behind most sales forces the world over), it is not an all-encompassing theory. It doesnt really address the sometimes complex reasons why people are motivated by money. It excludes people who are not driven primarily for money. It does not, for example, apply to voluntary organizations. In addition, it may not work if meeting the financial objectives might threaten other entitlements, creature-comforts or rights, such as an employees location, network of friends, employment conditions or cur rent level of job satisfaction. Several other related theories such as the ERG and AAP theories also tried to find out what motivates employees the most, and where does pay rank among motivators. The motivational power of money is clear in the sense that more dollars buy more things (but not all things as we discussed before), but why is money sometimes seen as a low quality motivator?(B) Money, an Over Estimated MotivatorIn our research and readings we were able to identify several problems with using money as a motivator in the work place. These points are summarized below and should be taken into consideration by the manager in his efforts to promote effectiveness and efficiency. (1) Cash becoming compensation: The great thing about choosing a monetary reward is that theres no extra distribution method necessary. Employees view cash incentives and awards as part of their annual compensation,  Because those dollars just become part of what you take home, theres nothing special about them. The money tends to get spent paying bills, and you dont really do anything thats memorable, so theres no lasting effect relative to the dollars that youre putting into those incentive schemes. It just becomes a part of that pile of money that you find a way to spend every month and every year. (2) A Tough Incentive to Take Away: Beyond cashs poor ability to change behaviors, it actually can be harmful. In good economic times, when everyone is flush and goals are being reached, cash can be easy to give out, but when times are bad, and the cash goes away, employees will wonder where their money went. And studies show that they will consider it their money. Discontinuing a noncash incentive program has a considerably less negative impact on employee motivation than killing a cash program. (3) Buyers Remorse Affects Money Incentives: A family man receiving a cash award from his company is faced with a tough decision: Put the money in savings or a college fund, or use it to pay bills, or splurge on a family vacation or buy them something special. If he decides to splurge, he may regret the decision later on when a particularly large bill comes due. That quandary can have a negative effect on the overall quality of the award, an opportunity will be considered as wasted if the money is spent or saved. Many non-cash incentive awards are considered luxuries, and earning them through hard work can give employees a sense of achievement. (4) Low Trophy Value: Cash lacks trophy value and social reinforcement attributes that increase the perceived value of the non-cash award over cash, the trophy value associated with noncash incentives is just immense. An employee will always find it more pleasant to talk about a company all-expenses- paid trip, movie tickets or even a warm pad on the back from the boss, than a two hundred dollars bonus check. (5) Money Is Not Promotable: The trophy value associated with non-cash awards can have a positive effect on other employees who didnt reach their goals and take home the award. Its harder for the boss to say do better and you  will get a certain cash reward, than to advertise a position for the employee of the month award for example. Money is less promotable than other forms of motivation. (6) Cash Satisfies Needs-Not Wants: Cash is easy for companies to give away, and everybody needs it. But for true motivation, you need to give people something they want or desire, not something they need. A trip to Hawaii, on the other hand, generates memories, and a plasma-screen TV is something theyll look at every day for years to come-and remember how they got it, a hundred dollar bill gained for an extra ordinary selling week is soon not different from a hundred dollar bill received as wage. (7) Money Is Impersonal: Sure, everyone could use more money, but whats special about that? The best rewards cater to a particular groups interests, and having that personal edge makes a big difference in how effective your program will be. (8) One Size Doesnt Fit All: There are no average employees, average has become wider and wider around the means over the past few years, and will continue to do so. So one really cant provide one option and think that its going to be appealing or motivating to the entire staff. (9) Managers Prefer Noncash: A recent study of 235 managers by the Forum for People Performance Management and Measurement showed that managers prefer non-cash employee recognition programs. According to the study, managers view non-cash awards as more important, more effective and generally superior for achieving the majority of specific organizational objectives. (10) No Global Parity: In economic terms, its called purchasing power parity, which means, roughly, that the cost of living-everything from the price of a nice dinner for two to a months rent-can be vastly different in different parts of the world. Companies with worldwide footprints need to make sure their award offerings are equal on a global scale. A dollar, after all, goes a lot farther in some corners of the world than in others. Non-cash awards such as gift cards allow companies to offer parity in terms  of the overall worth of the award. (11) Money Is Insufficient for Some Employees: in addition for the individual idiosyncrasies of individual employees, money may not be sufficient for some people. Highly paid employees for example may prefer other benefits such as an award ceremony, a club membership, a parking space closer to the office†¦(12) Evaluation of Performance: its hard to put a price tag on performance. Even clear rules, such as: sell x items and y dollars, may be seen as unfair. Employees may complain about their store location, their shifts, and their managers†¦ to give an unfair flavor to a peers bonus. Non-cash motivators are less likely to be thoroughly criticized and have a greater motivational value. (13) A Trouble Maker: money may set employees against each other, leading to conflict in the company. Employees may also feel forced to compete and thus Money becomes a fosterer of a hostile work environment rather than a motivational tool. (C) Research Study results:Several research studies were done on the effects of money as a motivator, and its position relative to other motivational incentives. The results of a NOVA Group study under the title Factors employees Find Motivating re affirmed several previous studies in which employees ranked money as fifth among motivation factors. Money was proceeded by: Interesting Work, Appreciation and Recognition, Feeling of being in on things, and Job Security. A more recent study on done by the Hay Group on retention factors found that money ranked a staggering tenth among employee retention factors. A research study for 57 managers conducted by Meudell Rodham showed through analysis of questionnaires that managers saw an increase in performance among their employees for an average of just two weeks after a pay raise followed by a relapse into the prior performance levels. Several other research papers we saw which conduct research on the effects of money as a motivator on employees of various professions showed similar results. Although the position of cash as motivator varied slightly among different working groups, it still showed that money has limited motivational power. For example In a much publicized study, Gupta and her colleagues analyzed thirty-nine studies conducted over four decades and found that cold-hard cash motivates workers as expected, but the research team acknowledges that money is not the only thing that concerns employees, noting that beyond a certain point higher salaries will make employees happier, but it will not buy better performance. III- Interviews, Analysis and Findings(A) The interviewsIn the process of researching the motivational power of money, we were lucky to interview two prominent managers:†¢Mr. Sami Gheriafi , Process and Institutional Planning Manager -AUB†¢Dr. Saad Andary , Deputy General Manager -BBAC BankAs a basis for the interviews, we prepared a questionnaire to address all the questions that were raised during our review of literature. Through out the interviews many more clarifying questions were asked, the end result was put into a QA format, and both interviews are posted in the annex at the end of the paper. (B) Interviews analysisIt was striking how the answers of two managers from two different organizations overlapped in key issues. Of course one will find differences in some approaches, but the overlap in addition to the findings we uncovered in our literature review gave us confidence in our results. Both managers gave non-monetary forms of motivation priority over money. Whether sending over-performers out of the country for advanced training to show the organizations commitment in improving their career opportunity, or verbal and written appreciation, non-monetary motivators were found to be superior. Empowerment, delegation of authority and freedom of decision are also very important tools used in the organizations to motivate employees. On the other hand, and in compliance with our research, both managers agreed that money is important especially in a region under economic stress, but  they also argued against using it primarily. Dr. Saad Andary noted that money according to his experience may play a good role as a retention factor, noting the huge pay gap between Lebanon and the Gulf, but he doesnt consider it as motivating. Both Mr. Sami Gheriafi and Dr. Saad Andary also indicated that money has a timed impact that is they as managers notice an increase in performance whe n a monetary reward is handed out, but this increase tend to dwindle down as the raise is spent. Non-monetary motivators tend to have a longer lasting effect on performance. On the use of money, Dr. Saad Andary pointed out that in current economic conditions, money is the managements easy way out, and even though both managers disagreed on managements ability to put a financial tag on performance, both agreed that it is not productivity that should be an issue, but also commitment to work, enthusiasm and the feeling of belonging to the company that should matter to managers. Money has a tempting impact on new comers; it refreshes the employees and energizes their performance; is an expected part of the motivational basket and if used properly and in an accurate sense will boost performance in times when a push is needed. But the use of money has its negative side as well. Money has shorter lasting effect on employees, it is less effective with employees higher up in the organizational hierarchy, money is also coupled with the firms profitability rather the employees performance in a sense that a hard working employee may not get a raise because the firm is not profitable that year, a thing which will discourage the employee especially if in more profitable years less effort lead to more money. Money also will put a huge financial burden on the company especially when employees begin to see bonuses and raises as part of their pay, they will grow more dependent on monetary rewards and this will produce a high employee turnover rate and a decrease in performance. Money, and depending on the management approach, might easily become a tool for manipulation rather than motivation. For these reasons Dr. Saad Andary forecasts that management will try to limit the negativities of money as a motivator by making reward more institutionalized, in a sense that staff will become shareholders and be granted stocks rather than raises. This will give rise to a partnership between the staff and the firm, the employees will no longer feel as pones moved by management, but rather  they will develop a genuine sense of belonging, and a true interest in the well being of the organization. IV- Conclusion: Money as a MotivatorAll the popular motivation theories have their flaws and detractors, but they do give us an insight into some of the mechanisms at work in day-to-day organizational life. A number of key messages ring true: firstly, people are not automatons and their reasons for behaving in a certain way are more complex than just money or laziness. Secondly, different people are motivated differently there is no such thing as a simple, all-encompassing solution. Thirdly, its important to get the work environment right if you want to get the most from people; and finally, managing perceptions and expectations is very important if you want to help people get the most from their work. As a summary, Money is found not to be a default and automatic motivator, its importance is subjective and its effectiveness in motivating is relative to the type of job and the way management uses it, non-monetary motivational approaches are superior in many ways (as explained above) . So if we want to finish up with one message we think that the best conclusion might be Avoid the Cash Trap. V-Annex(A) Dr. Saad Andary interview1)What are the motivation techniques followed in your Institution?What is the role of money in the above techniques?†¢One major form of motivation is to send staff out for training ( specially out of the country : New York, London); this is major motivating because it enhances the employee career and gives exposure to more advanced markets ( only the outstanding people are selected) . The other form of motivation is to promote and to empower the staff (to give him the freedom of decision). Money incentives: an environment which is under economic stress with high unemployment and depressed salaries and wages and also coupled with price inflation required to have constant individual raises , although this does not compensate to the huge job pricing differential between Lebanon and the Gulf); so money plays the role of retaining employees here and not motivating. 2)Do you think Money is the easy way out?†¢In our environment, yes it is, until we have sufficient economic growth to benefit from the oil boom. 3)How can you put a price tag on performance?†¢The appraisals to be reflected in the annual raises. BBAC is an institution working in the financial market where jobs can be easily assessed and priced (especially jobs related to sales, dealing, treasury, marketing†¦) where the management can pinpoint revenues or loss leading to the evaluation of the employee performance. 4)Do you notice an increase in performance after a money raise (bonus, financial reward)? And how long does it last?†¢It gives an immediate improvement in performance and lasts until the raise fade according to its amount (depend on the value of the reward). The bad thing about this is that: if its regular bonus or reward then its no longer conceived as merit where it becomes more as a salary = thats why a money raise cant be that effective motivator to count on. 5)From your experience, how did the concept Money as a Motivator develop through the past years? And where do you see it going?†¢In the banking industry : money became a norm ( bonus at end of the year for example) which is reflected by the profit of the form , so staff is identified with the concept of the profitability = there is functional relationship between money as motivator and profitability . See it going : towards becoming more institutionalized , in the sense that staff will become share holders (partners) ; employees will not be granted money but stocks which is a way of partnership that involves the staff in ownership = develops sense of belonging and last relation of employees with the firm. 6)What are the positive/negative aspects in using money as motivator (conflicts and competition between employees)?†¢ Positive: refresh the employees and energize their performance (although for just a period of time). Negative: money is coupled with the firm profitability and not directly related to the employee performance and results; the criteria set  for the rewards are not usually clear and standardized; decreases the sense of belonging towards the firm. 7)Doesnt money trivialize work and weaken sense of belonging?†¢Yes, money trivialize work and stock option can be the right alternative for improving sense of belonging8)Money: Motivation or Manipulation?†¢Money is recognition of the surplus created by the staff; cant be considered fully motivation or manipulation. 9)What is your conclusion (experience personal opinion) about Money as a Motivator†¢Money cant be used as a direct and effective motivator due to several constraints mentioned above. (B) Mr. Sami Gheriafi interview1)What are the motivation techniques followed in your Institution?†¢It is at the discretion of the managers of each department to use various techniques to motivate employees. Among many, there is empowerment, delegation of authority, added responsibility commensurate with seniority and financial incentives, promotions, commitment to employee professional development (mostly through training and development of talent, skills and competencies), and appreciation either verbally or in writing (aka psychological support) or, as specific to AUB, attainment of Presidents Service Excellence Award, an annual award given to employees with exceptional and superior customer service and notable productivity over the prior 3 years. My personal experience has led me to the following equation Productivity = Satisfaction x Appreciation. What is the role of money in the above techniques?†¢Money is a major motivator, however, in my opinion it has a times impact! By virtue of human nature, people tend to feel motivated with money, but after a short period of time, usually not more than 3 6 months, people tend to forget about the financial increase. The money reward will certainly help improving the employees performance in the short term, but its impact will fade out as time passes. 2)Do you think Money is the easy way out?†¢The use of easy way out is a bit  on the negative side, as when you refer to a situation where people circumvent a process or get a way with minimal loss or damage. On the other hand, Money has a strong buy-in and buy-out impact in that it elevates the level of personal satisfaction notwithstanding the longer term fading effect. Money losses its value with time and so does the money based motivation techniques. 3)How can you put a price tag on performance?†¢In financial terms, No! However, performance is measured in productivity of an individual. If the individual is satisfied with the job responsibilities and is being appreciated (both soft and hard), the performance is priced and reflected by commitment to work, enthusiasm, and personal ownership (not physical but psychological). 4)Do you notice an increase in performance after a money raise (bonus, financial reward)? And how long does it last?†¢Performance increase is always noticed after a financial reward. What I would like to point at is that the financial reward should be the consequence not the pre-requisite for an improved or increased performance. In my business life, I have seen many people who work and enjoy what they do with lesser amount of money, but have a great working atmosphere and very appreciative bosses. 5)From your experience, how did the concept Money as a Motivator develop through the past years? And where do you see it going?†¢From what I have seen in the past +15 years, money may have a tempting impact on a new employee or a new comer, but as time passes, and as people grow in hierarchy and mature on the personal level, the more motivating is the work responsibilities, assignments, business setting, atmosphere, stability of the organization, etc. and this is where the motivation is heading. In some cases, money becomes a way to walk out when an offer is made! If the business setup, setting, culture, modus operandi is not appealing, people might not want to burn bridges by refusing an offer, but might as well increase their expectation to a higher level that the employer might and/or will not be able to afford. 6)What are the positive/negative aspects in using money as motivator (conflicts and competition between employees)?†¢ Absolute use of money as a motivator has significant negative impact on the employee and the organization equally. The organizations operating budget will inflate with sky rocketing salary budgets and employees will be heavily dependant on monetary rewards. There will be a high employee turnover, resultant reduced productivity, resultant impact on the organizations turnover, etc. This is a vicious cycle. †¢The basket of motivational techniques, including financial reward, is a healthy approach to the organization and the employee. Both will benefit from what each party will give to the other. Organizations will receive productivity, commitment, ownership, improvement on the part of the employee who in return will also enjoy the basket of appreciation, work atmosphere, investment in his/her professional development, etc. This is what I call a win-win approach. 7)Doesnt money trivialize work and weaken sense of belonging?†¢Yes, sometimes it does. 8)Money: Motivation or Manipulation?†¢Again, the answer depends on the approach. In absolute term of motivation, money will be manipulative. 9)What is your conclusion (experience personal opinion) about Money as a Motivator†¢Money is one of the motivating factors, but certainly not THE motivator. There are more for people to receive from organizations than money. Let us remember that people make money not the other way around. References http://www.forexprofitingpro.com/sites/ldintino/_files/Image/MoneyGlobeOnFinger.JPGClarifying moneys role in motivating- Lynn W. Robbins University of Kentucky- Journal of Food Distribution ResearchGetting more bang for your buck- Martin Price is the director of HR Equations Ltd- employment today NOVEMBER 2005Motivating the work force (chapter ten) McGraw -Hill/IrwinMoney not the motivator The Herald Sun Thursday, 08 December 2005Money can be a big demotivator- John Fisher, Managing director,